The House of Representatives welcomed its newest member Rep. Holly Richardson, a Republican from District 57 in Pleasant Grove.

One of the highlights this week was the base budget that passed the House. Congressman Rob Bishop visited the Legislature and joined the Republican Caucus for lunch to discuss federal issues affecting the state and his role in the new session of Congress.

Congressman Jim Matheson spoke on the House floor Thursday; his message praised the Utah Legislature for working together as Republicans and Democrats for the best interest of the state, a lesson that should work its way back to Washington, D.C.

Later, Gov. Gary Herbert joined the Republican Caucus to discuss his budget proposal and the legislature’s budget approach. Friday Sen. Orrin Hatch was a guest on the House floor; he spent the majority of the time answering questions from members of the body that included immigration reform, federal spending and public lands policy.

Utah has unique challenges with an exploding student population; this requires serious solutions on the part of the Legislature. Excellence is about improving student performance and exploring the best possible ways to deliver quality education. Accountability means that the state, school districts and teachers must be responsible for ensuring the ongoing success of the students.

Economy – Business-friendly environment, no new taxes Our great state has been recognized for its business friendly climate and for leading the nation to economic recovery. We will continue our fight for sound economic policies, and low taxes that attract and keep businesses in Utah.

Energy – Independence, development

Utah is an energy rich state that has been severely limited in its ability to use those resources, making it difficult to establish economic and energy independence. Energy development will create jobs in our state, pour revenue into our schools and will help rural communities throughout Utah that have been negatively impacted by federal policies